Diego Costa wants to leave Chelsea and return to Atletico Madrid

His move from Atletico Madrid to Chelsea was one of the major transfer stories last summer, but after just one season, Diego Costa could be making a sensational switch from Stamford Bridge, back to the Vicente Calderon.

According to Madrid based sports daily Marca, the Spain international is prepared to take a significant drop in wages, in order to pave the way for a chance to work with Diego Simeone once more, with the Argentine coach said to have been in contact and ready to welcome the striker back with arms wide open.

There's no problems with Jose Mourinho, team-mates, the club or playing in the Premier League, being cited as being why the 26-year-old wants to leave Chelsea. So why does he want away?

Well, Marca have suggested: "His problem is because he hasn't adapted to living in London, the rainy English climate, the language, or the food."

Furthermore, it is claimed: "All of these elements are key as to why the striker has been in contact with officials of Atletico Madrid - with whom he maintains an excellent relationship - with one objective: A return home to the club he first joined aged 17."

Certainly, if there is indeed any truth to these claims, it would make for a spectacular story, if a return to Atletico Madrid comes to pass. Their fans would clearly be delighted to have Costa back, whilst understandably, Chelsea supporters would be left feeling hugely disappointed.

However, there is recognition by the popular Spanish outlet, that Chelsea won't be prepared to simply let Costa leave without a fight, after splashing out on his full £32 million clause valuation last summer.

With 26 goals in 20 Premier League games, Costa was a key component that helped Chelsea win the title, therefore is considered an integral part of the Mourinho plan, as the Portuguese coach seeks to retain the league crown next season.

Heath Chesters

Heath Chesters moved from Spain to England in 2005 and never looked back. Enjoying a Spanish football adventure with Granada CF, he eventually joined the press department at the club. As a La Liga correspondent at HITC Sport, he aims to share his insight and enthusiasm for the game in Spain.